Voyage to Micronesia

09 April 2009 - 26 April 2009

Clipper OdysseyThe 118-passenger 'Clipper Odyssey' provides superior onboard comfort while sailing to remote and off-the-beaten-path destinations. All of A&K's 'Odyssey' voyages are accompanied by destination experts and lecturers individually selected for each sailing, so that you know the stories behind all that you see. Staterooms are spacious and comfortable and all have an ocean view (some with a balcony). Each room includes a private bathroom, sitting area with sofa, in-room music system and television. An INMARSAT telecommunications system permits email access and an infirmary is staffed with an accredited physician on every voyage. After your daily adventures, relax in one of the lounges, visit the bridge with the ship’s officer, take a dip in the pool, work-out in the fitness room or pamper yourself with a massage. The intimate onboard atmosphere and expert hospitality, delivered by a well-trained crew of 73, ensures an unforgettable experience as ‘Clipper Odyssey’ makes her way through remote and culturally interesting waters. Onboard the ship all meals, drinks (except premium brand) and gratuities are included. Voyage to Micronesia ItinerarySailing in the wake of ancient navigators, journey from Papua New Guinea to the necklace-like coral atolls of Micronesia, where Western visitors are a rare sight. Cross the Equator into a world of vivid coral reefs, exotic plants, tropical birds and the exuberant spirit of village dancers.9 April – London/Cairns, AustraliaDepart from London Heathrow for Cairns via Bangkok and Sydney. 11 April - Cairns, AustraliaUpon arrival, transfer to your hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure to relax or explore. This evening, join your fellow travellers for a welcome dinner and reception.12 April - Cairns/Wewak, Papua New Guinea/Embark Clipper OdysseyAfter breakfast, transfer to the airport for a charter flight to Wewak, Papua New Guinea, where we board Clipper Odyssey and settle in for the first evening on board.13 April - At Sea Join the expedition staff as we begin our series of stimulating lectures. Spot seabirds and the occasional marine mammal from the deck. 14 April - Tingwon Islands, Papua New GuineaToday we will be some of the few outsiders to set foot on this small group of wooded islets. Explore the islands from Zodiacs and snorkel among large pelagic fish, unusual gorgonian fan corals and ripple-lipped tridacna clams. The local residents will invite us to walk around their village and explore the tropical jungle.15 April - Tabar Islands, Papua New Guinea This small island group forms part of the Bismarck Archipelago. Known as canoeists of great prowess, the Tabarian inhabitants are also the originators of highly prized Malagan carvings. Visit the town to gain further insight into the complex meaning and tradition surrounding these surrealistic open-fretwork carvings.16 April - Kapingamarangi Atoll Kapingarmarangi Atoll is the most isolated of the Caroline Islands. Simple open-air homes of thatch and wood make comfortable dwellings for the friendly islanders. The local weavers of pandanus mats are known throughout the South Pacific for their precision and attention to detail. Our lecturers and local guides explain Micronesian culture and we gain an insight of life in a truly ocean-based world.17 April - Nukuoro Atoll, Pohnpei GroupVisit Nukuoro Atoll, where swaying palms and thatched huts border turquoise seas. Gain an insight into the islanders’ daily lives as they exhibit the preparation of copra (coconut meat), and guide us through their village. Take time to learn about plumeria, crotons, spider lilies, bougainvillea and other beautiful botany. Divers and snorkellers may see the huma huma, barracuda, wrasse, moray eel and triggerfish.18 April - Pohnpei Island, Pohnpei Group Today we explore a truly magnificent wonder of the ancient world, known as the ‘Venice of the Pacific’. Constructed over a period of 1000 years, Nan Madol is a series of small artificial islands linked by a network of canals, and used to be the capital of the Saudeleur dynasty until approximately AD 1500. Join a guide on a nature, birding or botany walk to catch a glimpse of the endemic Pohnpei fantail and the Pohnpei flycatcher.19 April – Oroluk Lagoon, Pohnpei GroupFar removed from the rest of the world, the residents of the Oroluk Atoll lead a peaceful existence. Explore Oroluk Lagoon which serves as a reserve for large numbers of hawksbill and Pacific green turtles, often found swimming in the surrounding waters. The warm waters here also teem with soft coral communities and large numbers of tropical fish. 20-21 April - Chuuk GroupThe inhabitants of Western Chuuk are known for their colourful time-honoured dances and finely made handicrafts. We will spend the next two days exploring the turquoise blue waters where sea turtles, manta rays and a profusion of neon-coloured fish can be seen.22 April - Satawal, Yap Satawal is home to some of the most skilled traditional navigators in the world. In the afternoon, diving and snorkelling will be offered on the island’s reef. Alternatively, you can also go on birding and botany walks with our expert expedition staff, where there may be a chance to spot the Caroline reed-warbler and other endemic species.23 April – Ifalik Atoll, YapThe charming islanders will perform traditional dances and proudly escort us around their village. Westerners are a very rare sight, so this visit will be a unique cultural experience for everyone. 24 April - Gaferut Atoll, YapGaferut is a tiny shimmering island rising out of an azure sea. Birders can expect to see three species of booby, two species of noddy and three species of tern. There will also be the opportunity to snorkel from the Zodiacs.25 April - Guam/Tokyo, JapanDisembark the ship in Guam and transfer to the airport for your flight to Tokyo. Transfer to the Peninsula Tokyo hotel for an evening at leisure.26 April – TokyoAfter breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to London Heathrow.The nature of expeditionary cruising means the captain may change the itinerary based on local conditions.

The price includes international flights, all transfers and sightseeing as detailed in the itinerary, and full board in an A-Deck Mid Ship Cabin on Clipper Odyssey.

Room supplements (per person per night) from

Prices are per person per CRUISE from: Main Deck Forward Cabin £220; Main Deck Mid Ship Cabin £520; Lido Deck Mid Ship Cabin £854; Bridge Deck Deluxe Cabin £1184; Bridge Balcony Suite £2120; Bridge Owners Suite £3084.